While visiting New York City this summer, we took the time to visit the 9/11 Memorial. I really did not know what to expect as this was my first time in NYC. The ony reference of the twin towers I had was movies and pictures; mainly, TV newscasts of that day on 9/11.

I think most of us who were old enough to remember September 11, 2001 still remember where we were when we heard of the attack. I had two young girls at the house and was getting ready to head out for groceries when my husband called to tell me to turn on the news. Our house is on a flight path and we have planes flying over every day; as I love planes. I watched that day as more planes than I could count flew over slowly…wondering if the people on that plane were okay. I rememer the quiteness at our house the next few days as no planes flew.

This was my story about the day of 9/11. Watching the news in the days and weeks following and hearing stories of those never found was always a somber reality. When I saw the memorial, I was reminded again that this day was filled with so many more stories that were still untold. Stories of both good and of evil.

You see, in the days following 9/11, I was reminded over and over again how it was tragic for those who lost their lives and for those left behind. Seeing the memorial reminded me that each day is a gift…no matter who we are or what we are doing. Each person went to work that day just like any other day. We never know what day might be our last.

It was also tragic for those who committed those horrific acts. We not only need to pray for those around us, we also need to pray for those who are planning and plotting evil. God wants all to come to Him. We are not to discriminate in our prayers for others. Jesus even told us to pray for our enemies.

The memorial reminded me to pray for those who intend to hurt others, to pray for those around me, and to treat each day as if it could be your last. The stories of others matter because they give you reference, relection, and, as with the memorial, pause for remembrance. Take time today to pray for those God has brought into your life. Ask God to give you the wisdom you need to live your life as though it could be your last.

© 2019 Susan M. Sims

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